Hidden Gems: Meet Sidney West of West Personal Services

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sidney West.

Hi Sidney, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have always been an active person. My journey into fitness began as early as grade school and continued throughout high school. Athletics came naturally to me, and I knew from a young age that whatever path I chose in life, it would involve movement and helping others stay active. I will give you the very abbreviated version!

After graduating from college, I entered the workforce, secured a good job, and worked my way up professionally. Yet despite my success, something was missing. Deep within my soul, I felt a strong calling to teach physical fitness and help others improve their health.

As I looked around my community, I noticed that many African Americans were not making exercise and fitness a priority, particularly within the Black church. Having been raised in the church and being a deeply spiritual person, I recognized an opportunity to connect faith and fitness in a meaningful way.

In 2002, I earned certifications as a Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, Boot Camp Instructor, Senior Fitness Instructor, and Nutrition Specialist. While pursuing my passion for fitness, I continued working my full-time job and also taught and trained at the YMCA. I was blessed with a gift, and as the scriptures tell us, our gifts are meant to be shared.

My ultimate goal was to help improve the health and well-being of the African American community, especially within the Black church. I believed God had given me a mission—to inspire, educate, and empower others through fitness.

Then came a life-changing decision.

In 2012, I stepped out on faith and left my well-paying career to launch my own personal training business. I “launched out into the deep”. It was a challenging transition at times, but God is faithful. Through perseverance, faith, and dedication, I built a business centered on transforming lives through the connection of faith and fitness. I love what I do!

Today, I continue to serve as a small-business owner and fitness professional, helping individuals improve their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. My passion for empowering others inspired me to write Spiritual Empowerment Fitness: Empowering You; Empowering Your Church, which has been published in two editions.

In addition to my work in fitness, I am also the owner of West Funtime Getaways, a travel agency I founded in 2007.

Drawing on my professional background in project management, I specialize in planning and coordinating unforgettable memories and travel experiences for individuals, couples, and both small and large groups.
As a travel advisor, I have had the privilege of exploring destinations around the world, and by 2027, I will have visited all seven continents. My theme for West Funtime Getaways is “Expect the world; and get it”..

Whether through faith, fitness, or travel, I am passionate about helping people expand their horizons, enrich their lives, and experience God’s blessings in new and meaningful ways.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There is always a struggle. Without a struggle how would you grow. Covid caused me to “shift” and be creative in my training. My businesses are here and still standing!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I own and operate a fitness business and a travel agency.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I haven’t really thought about it. I am originally from Pittsburgh, Pa.
Columbus does not compare to Pittsburgh.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bodybysid.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodybysid
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bodybysidfe
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bodybysid1